Circle Brands: Senior Saddle Designer

Kaspar Companies•Yoakum, TX

21h•Onsite

About The Position

Circle Brands Job Description: Senior Saddle Designer Are you a creative saddle maker who understands both craftsmanship and true horse fit? Do you thrive when taking a saddle from raw concept to finished product in the rider’s hands? Are you passionate about blending western heritage with forward-thinking design and innovation? Do the values of stewardship, versatility, and family resonate strongly with you? Do you find the improvement of people’s lives through stewardship of God-given resources inspiring? Circle Brands is right for you! Senior Saddle Designer Job Summary The Senior Saddle Designer is responsible for leading saddle development from ground-up concept through production launch. This role requires a deep understanding of horse conformation, saddle fit, leather construction, and western craftsmanship. The Senior Saddle Designer blends artistry with functionality—bringing creative design ideas to life while ensuring structural integrity, manufacturability, and market success. This position works cross-functionally with operations, marketing, and product leadership to ensure new saddles are launched on time, on margin, and aligned with customer demand.

Requirements

Expert-level knowledge of saddle construction and leather craftsmanship
Deep understanding of horse conformation and saddle fit principles
Creative design thinking with the ability to execute functional products
Ability to take products from idea through lifecycle management
Strong cross-functional collaboration and communication skills
Ownership mindset with accountability for timelines and outcomes
Detail-oriented craftsmanship standards
Ability to balance heritage aesthetics with modern rider needs
5+ years of saddle building or saddle design experience
Proven experience designing and developing saddles from concept to launch
Strong understanding of materials, leather tooling, and western aesthetics
Background in the western or equine industry required
Ability to stand for extended periods
Frequent bending, lifting, and hands-on craftsmanship work
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a manufacturing or production environment preferred
CAD or design software experience preferred

Responsibilities

Design saddles from concept through prototype, testing, and production release
Ensure proper saddle fit, tree selection, rigging placement, and rider balance
Create detailed design specifications, materials lists, and construction documentation
Introduce innovative design elements while honoring western tradition
Partner with operations to ensure manufacturability and production feasibility
Collaborate with marketing and sales to align product design with customer needs and trends
Lead prototype reviews and refine products based on rider and dealer feedback
Monitor post-launch performance including sales, margins, and customer feedback
Drive continuous improvement in saddle construction techniques and materials
Mentor and develop junior designers and craftsmen to elevate team capability
Participate in cross-functional planning meetings to align product goals with business strategy
All other duties as assigned by management